The Architecture of Mexico

Paul and I took a day-long road trip to visit the Mayan ruins of Coba and Tulum, both beautiful sites in their own way. Coba is a site of great Mayan significance as I understand it; the main trade routes and swaths of land were under its control. Today it's a massive pyramid in the jungle, impressive to look at and even more impressive to attempt to climb. My vertigo overtook me at step 10. If you want to try it yourself, go quickly because the Mexican government will prohibit climbing the temple steps in a couple of months. Until then it is the last Mayan ruin that visitors are allowed to climb.

Then we traveled back to the coast to visit Tulum, beautiful and glorious Tulum. Although not as imiportant historically, Tulum's grandeur is it's placement on the beautiful Caribbean sea. Stunning.

Tulum temple

Back in town, my focus shifted to architecture of a more modern type. I love the roofs and materials of tropical houses and buildings. This particularly beautiful shot (thanks Paul) of the church in downtown Playa del Carmen pretty much says it all. Think about it compared to the churches in your town. Same religion but very different.

Playa del Carmen church

Finally, we headed back to our home away from home, Petit Lafitte to celebrate the last rays of the day with the bartender Victor and the best margaritas in Mexico. But not before pausing to appreciate the lobby with its use of age-old adobe walls, thatched roof, and tile work although constructed only a few years ago. Most noticeable of all; no doors or windows. I now have a new goal in life to add to my goal of having a palm tree in my backyard - to live in an open house with aire libre. - l.o.d.